Marcelo's own goal, vanishing spray and goaline technology - the World Cup firsts at Brazil 2014

History makers: Opening strike of a World Cup had never been an own goal

The tournament opener between Brazil and Croatia saw a series of World Cup firsts as fans were treated to the vanishing spray at free-kicks, goal-line technology and the first goal of the tournament being an own goal.

Starting with the spray, every referee at the World Cup will be armed with a can of 'vanishing spray' in a holster attached to their shorts. As demonstrated tonight, the referee will pour out the disappearing water-based substance on the turf around where the free-kick should be taken and how far back the wall must go.

The system has been used in Brazilian and Argentine football for a number of seasons, and will make its Champions League debut next season.

Meanwhile, Frank Lampard and ‘Russian linesman’ will be rejoicing at the use of goal-line technology in this summer’s tournament. ITV were so excited by the technology that they used it to show that Marcelo’s own goal had in fact crossed the line – in case the ball hitting the back of the net wasn’t enough of a giveaway.

Now you see me, now you don't: Vanishing spray marks its debut

In a game of firsts, tonight’s match also included the first time ever that the opening strike of a World Cup had been an own goal. Brazilian left-back ensured he will pop up in online and pub quizzes for years to come when he diverted Nikita Jelavic’s scuffed shot into his own net.

The Real Madrid defender may be relieved to know that it was not the first time an own goal has been scored in a World Cup opener.

Scotland’s Tommy Boyd holds that unfortunate record after he scored at the wrong end to condemn his side to a 2-1 defeat in the first game of the 1998 tournament against Brazil.